Recently I had the privilege of joining us with Brisbane Lions to launch the new Logan Lions Youth Academy at Mabel Park High School.
The creation of the academy is part of a long-standing agreement between Logan City Council and Brisbane Lions to support the development of sport in the city.
The Brisbane Lions have been a big supporter of grassroot sports in the City of Logan – they have contributed more than $1 million to various clubs and programs since the construction of the Lions @ Springwood facility in 2009.
While the academy is yet another pathway for our ambitious young sportspeople to succeed it will also have a strong focus on mental and physical health, nutrition, leadership and wellbeing.
The community building and leadership opportunities that these students will take part in will ensure Logan’s next generation of leaders are well equipped.
It will also offer the opportunity for our young people to have access to elite coaches and training.
While the program will be based at Mabel Park it will have wider ranging benefits by developing a healthy and connected community.
Not only is it an investment in our student’s sporting success but also other areas of their life.
It is another great pathway for our young people who will become our future leaders, and the inspiration for future generations.
The program will provide tailored AFL skills training for up to 50 students each year.
Places in the Logan Lions Youth Academy will initially be available to interested students enrolled at Mabel Park SHS.
In coming years, the program will be extended to other City of Logan senior and primary schools, which will also be able to access support for sporting infrastructure and equipment.
The academy’s first class of students will learn first-hand from high-profile Brisbane Lions AFLW player Courtney Hodder, who has recently joined Mabel Park’s student support staff.
We are thrilled to support the Lions in the rollout of this new academy. I’m excited by what the Logan Lions Academy will offer students and I can’t wait to see more AFL and AFLW superstars develop in the City of Logan.
